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From the initial spark of inspiration to the sewing of the last seam, this advanced manual to knitwear design provides knitters with the foundation to take their projects to the next level. The four exceptional projects demonstrate the level of uniqueness and beauty that can be achieved with these expert techniques and how to achieve the elusive “perfect fit” that defines a successful end product. Knitters will gain a clearer understanding of commercial pattern instructions, improve their attention to detail with a meaningful test swatch, and acquire a stronger knowledge of proper body and garment measurements.

"Knitters usually begin with simpler items like scarves and move on to more complicated projects like sweaters. But once sweaters are mastered, many experienced knitters want to know how to design their own knitwear—and have it fit. There are a number of books that explain the mechanics and the math of designing sweaters. This one, too, examines commercial patterns, the intricacies and importance of measurement, and the result that comes with various yarns. But this book is particularly comprehensive in that it explains how to adapt different stitches other than the reliable stockinette to make sweaters that are unique to the knitter. This volume—spiral-bound inside sturdy covers—is not for the faint-of-heart knitter, but those longing to take their knitting to the next level will be enthralled. Four attractive projects are included as examples of the many techniques author Paden explains." - Ilene Cooper, Booklist

"Exhaustive, comprehensive—mere adjectives don't begin to describe it so I'll stop trying...Paden is simply in a master class of her own." — Yarn Market News

"First Reaction: Blown Away. If you're interested in sweater design, and want to understand everything, you need to look at this book. It's amazing. I have other design books in my library...but this one stands on its own." — KnittingScholar.com

"This is a comprehensive guide to getting an idea out of your head and into a knitting pattern. It's also a fantastic resource to use to alter an existing pattern to your specifications." — Knitty.com

"Add this to your essentials shelf, next to Barbara Walker and Nancy Wiseman. And make something fabulous." — Twist Collective blog

"The book's layout is very clean, clear and attractive, with high quality photos and diagrams, to keep the reader inspired and motivated. Paden writes succinctly and well, packing in a wealth of information." — Crochet Insider

"Captivating designs with flattering silhouettes." — Quick & Easy Crochet

"If you have even the slightest interest in design or want your garments to fit better, Knitwear Design Workshop belongs on your knitting bookshelf." — Knitting Purls newsletter

"Easy-to-follow...Shirley Paden offers detailed techniques for achieving just the look and fit that are right for you." — Detroit News

Shirley Paden is the owner and founder of Shirley Paden Custom Knits. She teaches master knitting classes for the fashion industry and conducts seminars on lace, entrelac, cables, color knitting, and finishing techniques. She lives in New York City.